Shizuoka Prefecture stretches across the widest part of Honshu, from the Pacific coast tea fields facing Mount Fuji to the Izu Peninsula’s volcanic hot spring coves. The Izu coast has been Tokyo’s favourite weekend escape since the Meiji era — the resorts of Atami, Ito, and Shimoda each have their own character and history.

Best Areas to Stay

Atami — Meiji-Era Resort Town

The first onsen resort to be connected to Tokyo by train (1925). A hillside town facing Sagami Bay with dozens of ryokan tumbling down the slope to the sea. Volcanic spring water, the MOA Museum of Art (an extraordinary hilltop gallery), and a lively local food scene. Best for: quick Tokyo escape, culture, seafood.

Ito — Quieter Alternative

A smaller resort town south of Atami with a more relaxed atmosphere. The coastline here has sea cave hot springs (kaichu-onsen) and diving. Best for: couples, relaxation, diving.

Shimoda — “Black Ships” History

Where Commodore Perry’s squadron forced Japan’s opening in 1854. American-influenced architecture, excellent Pacific seafood, dramatic clifftop scenery, and some of Japan’s finest white-sand beaches. Best for: history, beaches, summer swimming.

Fuji Five Lakes (from Yamanashi side)

Though administratively Yamanashi, the Lake Kawaguchi/Fujikawaguchiko accommodation serves as the primary Fuji view base. Ryokan with tatami rooms and Fuji-facing windows — one of Japan’s iconic accommodation experiences.

Atami Ryokan

Atami Sekitei ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

A cliffside ryokan above the Pacific with an outdoor bath carved into the rock — guests bathe with an unobstructed view of Sagami Bay and on clear days the silhouette of Izu Oshima volcanic island. ¥35,000–¥70,000/pp.

Kinjokan ⭐⭐⭐⭐

A traditional Atami ryokan in operation since the Meiji era — multiple spring bath types, sea view rooms, and kaiseki incorporating local Sagami Bay seafood (kinmedai rockfish, lobster, abalone). ¥25,000–¥50,000/pp.

Atami Hotel La Suite

A modern hotel on the waterfront — a more affordable entry to Atami’s onsen scene with a sea-view outdoor bath facility. ¥18,000–¥30,000/night.

Ito Accommodation

Ito Onsen Yukimi

A small ryokan in Ito specialising in semi-private outdoor baths with ocean views. The spring water here is alkaline and colourless — known as the “beauty onsen” for its skin benefits. ¥20,000–¥35,000/pp.

Marin Town Hotel

A reasonable mid-range option near Ito Marina with views across the harbour. Ito’s diving boats depart from the marina — this hotel assists with dive trip bookings. ¥12,000–¥20,000/night.

Shimoda Accommodation

Shimoda Prince Hotel ⭐⭐⭐⭐

A cliffside hotel above the Pacific coast beaches of southern Izu — outdoor infinity pool facing the ocean, tennis courts, and Japanese restaurant serving local seafood. ¥28,000–¥55,000/night.

Perry Road Guesthouse Area

A collection of small guesthouses along the historic Perry Road canal — a 10-minute walk from Shimoda Station along a picturesque 200-year-old canal. Local izakayas and seafood restaurants within walking distance. ¥8,000–¥15,000/night.

Fuji Five Lakes (Lake Kawaguchi)

Kozantei Ubuya ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

The most iconic ryokan for Fuji views — rotenburo baths and dining rooms facing Lake Kawaguchi with Mount Fuji rising directly behind. The inverse reflection of Fuji in the lake from the outdoor bath is one of Japan’s great experiences. ¥45,000–¥90,000/pp. Peak autumn foliage (mid-November) commands premium prices.

Lake Kawaguchi Onsen Hotel Koguriya

A mid-range hotel on the north shore of Lake Kawaguchi — Fuji views from rooms on the lake-facing side. Natural hot spring bath facility. ¥18,000–¥30,000/pp.

Practical Tips

  • Atami access: From Tokyo Station, the Kodama Shinkansen stops at Atami in 45 minutes (¥3,880). The fastest option from Shinjuku is the Odoriko limited express (1h30min). No price difference worth noting.
  • Kinmedai (splendid alfonsino) fish: The signature fish of Atami and Ito — a deep-sea rockfish with distinctive orange skin. Grilled over binchotan charcoal, it’s one of Japan’s finest regional fish dishes. Order it as the centrepiece at any Atami ryokan.
  • Shimoda Black Ships Festival: Late May — traditional festival commemorating Perry’s arrival, including American and Japanese parade participants. Shimoda hotels are fully booked.
  • Izu Peninsula driving: A rental car transforms the Izu Peninsula — winding coastal roads, sea cave hot springs, and remote fishing villages unreachable by public transport. Rent at Atami or Ito Station.
  • Fuji photography timing: The famous “Diamond Fuji” (the sun setting exactly at the summit) occurs twice a year at Lake Kawaguchi — around April 20 and August 23. Kozantei Ubuya is fully booked weeks ahead for these dates.